The Eighth Edition of the MLA Handbook is here!

The MLA 8th Edition was released in April 2016, with some significant changes.  But don’t stress, we’re here to help!

What has changed?

Previous editions required that users first identify the format of their source.  In the eighth edition, users begin by identifying up to nine “Core Elements” and construct their citations by placing those elements in the correct order.  This chart demonstrates the accepted order of the elements and the punctuation that ought to be used to separate them:

What is a “container”?

A container is a larger work that holds, or contains, the source.  Examples of “containers” include: an anthology or other collection of works, a periodical, a website, a television or radio series, or a database.  Some citations may include more than one container, while others include no containers.

What else is different?

There are many other changes. For example, the city of publication is now considered optional, as is the date that an online work was accessed. It is now highly recommended that citations include a URL if the source was found online, even if the URL becomes outdated over time.  The medium of publication is no longer stated. Consult the handbook for a complete list of changes.

Does EasyBib use the 7^th or 8^th edition?

Students using EasyBib now have the option to select “MLA7” or “MLA8”.  The default style for new projects remains MLA7 for now.

 Where can I go to learn more?

The library has purchased two copies of the MLA 8^th Edition; one copy is included in the circulating collection and the other is held at the Research Help Desk.  The online MLA Style Center offers sample papers and helpful practice templates.  Another excellent resource that we recommend is the Purdue University Online Writing Lab (known as Purdue OWL).

Or, ask us!

The Research Services librarians are happy to help you with your transition to MLA8.  Please contact us with any questions! Email library@assumption.edu or call us at (508)767-7273.